Did you miss our virtual youth pitch event on December 1, 2022? It was amazing! Check out the highlights in this video replay. Thank YOU to our mentors, panelists, audience, and most of all the kids who did the hard work of pitching their ideas at this event.
Panelists were:
Albert Swantner is the co-founder and CTO of Betterleave, a company that supports people experiencing the death of a loved one. He’s also a Partner at The Fund Austin investing in early stage startups. Albert advises and invests in numerous startups, is on the board of multiple nonprofits, and works with the University of Texas Humanitarian Engineering Program, SKU, Techstars, SXSW, and DivInc.
Jason Mercado is the owner of Sweet Mission, a for-purpose cookie company baking with love in Anaheim California. As a formerly homeless individual, the goal of Sweet Mission is provide employment to those who come from a vulnerable background and to also give back to the community.
Brooke Turner, Vice President of STEAM Learning at Thinkery is a passionate education and programs executive focused on access and equity. Prior to joining Thinkery, Brooke held the role of Vice President of Programs for DivInc and co-founded a edtech startup, Kwaddle. Her entrepreneurial spirit and passion for impact came about while growing up in San Antonio, where Brooke saw first-hand the power and importance of culture, community, and education in building a more equitable world. She has applied those lessons throughout her career.
Youth Pitch Participants were:
KD’s Kustom Treats – handmade custom treats by Kimora that offers different types of custom treats, featuring flavored popcorn and hot chocolate bombs.
Jam by Josh – all natural jams made of only four ingredients, for people who love food but think about what they’re putting into their bodies.
Inch by Inch by Isabella – helping to solve the global problem of fabric waste with clothing extenders from scrap. Extend pants and sleeves to accommodate growing kids, save closet space, money and prevent clothes from landing in the landfill!
Blue Blossom Slimez by Camille – homemade scented slimes that are available with in different scents, colors, and included charms. Camille has been working on this business since she was in second grade.
Effortlessly You by Madison – an apparel brand that inspires, empowers and motivates others to be themselves effortlessly. She ultimately wants to start a mental health nonprofit for those who are struggling.
VentureLab holds youth pitch events regularly! Get involved with our next youth pitch event as a panelist, audience, or participant.
